Paul Merson believes incoming Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso should prioritize recalling Nicolas Jackson from Bayern Munich this summer as his first major transfer move. The Arsenal legend argues Jackson's return would solve the club's persistent striker crisis, with current forward Liam Delap struggling to justify his £30 million fee from Ipswich Town.
Delap has managed just three goals and one assist across 47 appearances in all competitions during his debut season at Stamford Bridge. His underwhelming output played a significant role in Chelsea's dramatic fall from grace—the Blues finished fourth last season but slumped to 10th place this term following a 2-1 defeat to Sunderland on the final day, missing European football entirely. Bayern Munich currently holds a £70 million option to purchase Jackson, who spent the campaign on loan in the Bundesliga.
Tactical Blueprint for Alonso's Chelsea
Merson outlined a specific tactical framework for Alonso's rebuild on The Good, The Bad & The Football podcast. He advocated for a back-three formation that would maximize Chelsea's attacking fullbacks while providing defensive solidity. The system would utilize Reece James, Marc Cucurella, and Malo Gusto in advanced roles, supported by holding midfielders Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo.
"Palmer made Jackson and Jackson made Palmer," Merson stated, highlighting the creative partnership that flourished when both players operated together. He emphasized that Jackson's absence has disrupted Chelsea's attacking rhythm, suggesting the forward's absence even affected Cole Palmer's World Cup selection prospects. Merson also questioned Joao Pedro's suitability as a traditional number nine, noting the Portuguese talent prefers operating as a number 10 in more withdrawn positions.
With Alonso's appointment from Real Madrid beginning July 1, Chelsea requires experienced additions and substantial squad overhaul to challenge for domestic and European trophies again. Recalling Jackson represents both a tactical and psychological reset for a club that must rebuild credibility with supporters.
